Jessica Shaffer, CSW-PIP

Jessica Shaffer is a licensed social worker in South Dakota who brings a blend of clinical experience and practical skills to her therapy practice. She has worked in the mental health field since 2003 and has 12 years of experience providing therapy, serving primarily youth ages 5 to 18 as well as some adults. Her clinical background includes individual and group therapy with clients who have experienced a range of traumas, and she has treated depression, PTSD, anxiety, relationship challenges, and other concerns. She previously worked in a locked correctional facility in Colorado where she specialized in crisis intervention for clients who were acutely suicidal and in the diagnosis and treatment of severe and persistent mental illness.

Jessica draws from evidence-informed methods such as solution-focused strategies, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, trauma-focused interventions, and mindfulness techniques to tailor treatment to each person. She emphasizes the therapeutic relationship as the primary tool for change and works to build trust and rapport quickly so clients feel supported in setting goals and making progress. Licensed in South Dakota as a Certified Social Worker in Private Independent Practice (CSW-PIP), she combines formal training with hands-on experience to address stress, grief, addictions, family and parenting concerns, first responder issues, self-harm, and more.

Outside of her clinical work, Jessica enjoys traveling, spending time with family, and being outdoors. She welcomes the opportunity to provide counseling online and supports clients in finding approaches that meet their needs and life circumstances.